Residents, environmental advocates, community leaders and families gathered along the shoreline June 16 for the grand opening of Eco Park, a new coastal environmental space created through a partnership between the city and the Land Trust of West Haven.
The family-friendly celebration attracted dozens of attendees who enjoyed a ribbon-cutting ceremony, educational displays, a planting activity, music, ice cream and refreshments, as well as opportunities to learn about native coastal habitats and shoreline restoration.
The event also received extensive media coverage that helped showcase Eco Park’s environmental mission and the collaborative effort behind the project, bringing the story of West Haven’s newest shoreline destination to audiences statewide.
Located along the Land Trust’s shoreline easement at the Old Grove Park boardwalk, Eco Park transformed a formerly overgrown area into a vibrant public space that combines environmental restoration, wildlife habitat and outdoor education.
Mayor Dorinda Borer praised the project as an example of what collaboration and community investment can accomplish.
“Eco Park is a wonderful addition to our shoreline and a reflection of West Haven’s commitment to environmental stewardship,” Borer said. “This project demonstrates the power of partnerships and provides residents with a beautiful place to connect with nature while learning about the importance of protecting our coastal environment.”
Land Trust President Marilyn Wilkes reflected on the years of planning and volunteer efforts that brought the project to life.
“Eco Park has been a labor of love more than five years in the making,” Wilkes said. “What began as a vision to restore a neglected section of shoreline has become a living environmental classroom and a place where residents of all ages can experience the beauty and importance of native coastal ecosystems. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this vision a reality.”
Parks and Recreation Director Mark E. Paine Jr. highlighted the project’s lasting value for the community.
“Eco Park represents the best of what can happen when a community comes together around a shared goal,” Paine said. “This space will provide educational opportunities, support local wildlife, and serve as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors for years to come.”
Eco Park features native plants selected to support pollinators and wildlife, improve biodiversity, and strengthen shoreline resilience. Interpretive signs throughout the park help visitors learn about coastal habitats, native plants, environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting Long Island Sound.
The city and the Land Trust extend their gratitude to the many volunteers, community organizations, consultants, sponsors and residents whose support helped make the park possible.
Borer said the grand opening marks the beginning of Eco Park’s next chapter as a community resource for environmental education, conservation and public enjoyment.
For more information about Eco Park and upcoming programs, visit its website at https://landtrustwesthavenct.org/ecopark/ or follow the park on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590536638900.